It probably goes without saying that one of the biggest obstacles to taking the plunge and applying to go on a course of training is the cost factor. So if you haven't got enough savings, or anxious about using any redundancy money or tax rebates you prefer to hold onto now in these uncertain times, you need to find another way to pay for your course. There is an answer - and it's legal!
Whatever your age or individual circumstances, the good news is that there are now many different organisations and ways to get yourself funded - all it takes is a little bit of research to find out how each works, eligibility and how to apply.City and Guilds offer a small number of bursaries (educational grants) each year to people who would like the opportunity to study for a City & Guilds qualification. The bursaries can be used for a wide range of purposes including, paying your course fees (if you have no other funding), covering the costs of a break from work whilst you re-train, covering childcare or travel expenses, or covering other costs that are making it difficult for you to enrol onto a course.
Train to Gain is the national skills service that supports employers of all sizes and in all sectors to improve the skills of their employees as a route to improving their business performance. Aimed at contracted employees (full and part-time), it also includes self-employed people, volunteers and employment agency workers. They cover NVQs, sector-specific skills and funding is available for apprenticeships and advanced apprenticeships too. At AbleSkills, information and assistance is readily available to find out the best type of funding for you !